Manager, Warehouse and Distribution

About the role

The Warehouse & Distribution Manager provides strategic and operational leadership for end‑to‑end distribution centre operations in Japan, ensuring safe, compliant and efficient product supply.

Key responsibilities

• Lead daily warehouse and distribution operations, including storage, shipping and domestic transportation.
• Develop and execute mid‑ to long‑term strategy and capacity planning to support business growth.
• Manage 3PL and vendor relationships to ensure strong operational performance.
• Monitor KPIs, service levels and drive improvements in quality, cost and productivity.
• Oversee budgets, cost performance and financial planning for warehouse and distribution activities.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, regulatory requirements and company standards.
• Identify operational risks and implement business continuity mitigation plans.
• Drive continuous improvement, process optimisation and innovation across warehouse and distribution processes.
• Partner with commercial, supply chain, quality and global stakeholders to align distribution priorities with business strategy.
• Lead, coach and develop team members to build future‑ready capabilities.

Required profile

• Minimum 10 years of experience in supply chain, logistics, warehousing or distribution operations, including people leadership.
• Experience managing 3PL partners and distribution in a regulated environment.
• Background in healthcare, pharmaceutical or medical device industries.
• Proven track record in operational excellence, continuous improvement and cost management.
• Experience developing distribution network or capacity plans to support growth.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills in Japanese and English.

Required skills

• SAP or other supply chain/warehouse management systems.